Putney parishioners lose Rev Sharon Hunt after racist abuse
Rev Sharon Hunt resigned her curacy at St Mary’s Church in Putney following racist abuse at a parish dinner on 24 September 2026, prompting diocesan anti‑racism review.
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Rev Sharon Hunt, the first African‑Caribbean priest to serve at St Mary’s Church in Putney, formally stepped down from her curacy on 29 September 2026. She cited racist abuse she endured during a monthly “seminar supper” held at a parish member’s home on 24 September 2026. In a letter read aloud at the following Sunday service, Hunt described the evening as a personal attack that left her feeling unseen and devalued. The letter did not name the individuals responsible, but it made clear that the abuse and the silence of other attendees broke the trust she had built with the community.
Archdeacon’s public condemnation
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The Venerable Bridget Shepherd, Archdeacon of Wandsworth, responded to the incident with a statement to The Times. Shepherd said the situation had a significant impact on Hunt and on others affected by the abuse. She described the behaviour at the seminar supper as unacceptable and stressed that no one should have to tolerate racism in any form.
What took place at the Seminar Supper was unacceptable.
Bridget Shepherd, Archdeacon of Wandsworth
Diocesan review and support
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The Diocese of Southwark issued a statement confirming that it had provided pastoral support to Hunt immediately after learning of the abuse. Diocesan safeguarding professionals met to discuss the matter and kept Hunt informed throughout. The diocese pledged to review the lessons from this case and to consider how anti‑racism work with St Mary’s can be strengthened over the coming months. It framed the review as part of its broader commitment to racial justice rooted in Christian belief.
Parishioners have been invited to share their experiences with diocesan representatives as part of the review process. The church’s leadership said it will continue to offer pastoral care to the congregation while the anti‑racism measures are being developed. Residents of Putney who attend St Mary’s are advised to stay in contact with the parish office for updates on forthcoming initiatives.
Questions this report answers
+Why did Rev Sharon Hunt resign from St Mary’s Church?
Rev Sharon Hunt resigned after she experienced racist abuse at a parish dinner on 24 September 2026. She said the abuse and the silence of other attendees damaged her trust in the community, leading her to lay down her curacy.
+What response did the Archdeacon of Wandsworth give?
Archdeacon Bridget Shepherd issued a statement condemning the racist incident, calling it unacceptable and acknowledging its impact on Hunt and others. She affirmed that no one should have to tolerate racism in any form.
+What actions will the Diocese of Southwark take next?
The Diocese of Southwark announced it will review its anti‑racism measures and work with St Mary’s parish over the coming months. The review will consider lessons from the incident and aim to strengthen anti‑racism work while providing ongoing pastoral support.
+How can parish members stay informed about the anti‑racism review?
Parish members are encouraged to contact the St Mary’s church office for updates. The diocese will involve residents in the review process and will communicate any new initiatives or support measures as they are developed.
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